Chicago GLAAD Hatter Brunch Returns

GLAAD and its Chicago Leadership Council announce the return of the extremely popular GLAAD Hatter Brunch on Saturday, April 19, 2014. Now in its 3rd year, the Easter-bonnet themed fundraising event will return to Tavern 750 located in Lakeview at 750 West Cornelia. With room for only 90 people, the event is sure to sell out again for the third time in a row. Tickets are on sale for $75 per person at http://www.glaad.org/events/glaadhatter.

Joining the event will be special guest and GLAAD's National Spokesman and Strategic Giving Officer, Omar Sharif, Jr. Omar is an Egyptian-Canadian actor, public-figure, and grandson to actor Omar Sharif ("Lawrence of Arabia," "Dr. Zhivago.")

He faced a barrage of condemnation, criticism and threats of violence in the Arab world after he wrote a commentary in which he came out in 2012. Most of this negativity was spurred on by the Arabic media's demonization of his gay identity. Passionate about equal and human rights, Omar feels a responsibility to advocate on behalf of - and provide a voice for - those still silenced by fear or repression internationally.

Brunch participants are encouraged to build and wear fantastic hats. In addition to delicious brunch food, bottomless mimosas and cocktails, the event features a juried hat contest with a Grand Prize for best hat and a People's Choice Prize for favorite hat. A raffle with dozens of prizes from GLAAD supporters and a gift bag for everyone means nobody goes home empty handed.

"Chicago has always been one of favorite cities, so I am thrilled to be joining one of GLAAD's most supportive Leadership Councils in celebrating a landmark year for the LGBT community in Illinois. 'Hats off' to the great people of Chicago and Illinois-I look forward to toasting your successes on April 19th!"

Kacey Musgraves is set to be the first country singer to perform at the GLAAD Awards next month but one anti-gay pastor says she would have been killed for pro-gay views and LGBT inclusive single "Follow Your Arrow."